Heart of Knutsford

Tradition links Knutsford with King Canute (995-1035) who is supposed to have forded the Lily Stream in 1016 giving the Town its name. Knutsford appears in the Domesday Book of 1085 as “Cunetesford” and in 1292 a charter was granted to William de Tabley by King Edward I allowing a court, market and fair to be established. The 38 Burgesses were empowered to elect a Bailiff and Mayor, the first recorded holder of the title was John Hall. The office of Mayor lapsed but was revived in 1974 following the formation of the Town Council.

Knutsford was once a famous cockfighting centre, and from 1729-1873 its racecourse too was famous. On racing days the county families used to drive in with their coaches. Knutsford was also the inspiration for Elizabeth Gaskell’s “Cranford”.

Knutsford has been the home to many notable people, from Elizabeth Gaskell to Highwayman Higgins; and it has also been a place which many have visited. Princess Victoria (later Queen Victoria) visited in 1832, and the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) visited in 1887. Louis Napoleon (Napoleon III) visited in 1848, as have numerous other figures from history including Winston Churchill.

A historical estate with a neo-classical mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens, 1000 acres of deer park, a rare breed farm and medieval Old Hall.

For nearly 400 years the estate was the property of the Egerton family until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1958. It is now financed and maintained by Cheshire East Council. This is one of the most complete historic estates open to visitors. The early 19th-century Mansion sits amid a landscaped deer Park and is opulently decorated, providing a fine setting for the Egerton family’s extensive collections. The theme of Victorian grandeur extends into the garden with its glasshouses, formal gardens, Italian and Japanese gardens.

There is so much to see and do and with over 100 events each year, it makes for one of the most popular family days out in the North West. Enjoy speciality shops, the Stables restaurant and Gardener’s Cottage tea room. Take a visit to Tatton Dale Farm, the picture of rural life where time has stood still since the 1930s and traditional breeds are still resident. Children can explore the adventure play area, woodland play trail and den building zone.

The former Head Gardener’s Cottage has been transformed into a beautiful tea room, serving traditional afternoon tea as well as breakfast, light lunch and freshly baked cakes. Nestled in a unique location in the Victorian Walled gardens with views of the orchards, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch.

There are some 53 eateries in Knutsford according to Onionring, so you’ll never be short on places to try. Check them out here.